Lisbon Packing List

A scenic view of Lisbon, Portugal, featuring São Jorge Castle, colorful hillside houses, and the 25 de Abril Bridge at sunset.

What Should You Pack for Lisbon?

Lisbon enjoys mild to warm weather most of the year, but it’s always a good idea to pack layers! For spring and fall, bring light layers like short-sleeve shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and a casual jacket for cooler evenings. Summer days are warm, so pack comfortable clothes like dresses, shorts, and tank tops. Even in winter, the weather stays mild, but you’ll want a sweater and a rain jacket for those rainy days. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking around Lisbon’s hilly streets and cobblestones!

Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring the Alfama district, visiting Belém Tower, riding Tram 28, enjoying views from São Jorge Castle, and indulging in pastéis de nata.

Dress Code

Lisbon is a laid-back city, but locals tend to dress stylishly even in casual settings. During the day, jeans or a dress with comfortable shoes will work well for sightseeing. If you’re visiting churches or cultural landmarks, modest clothing is recommended, so a scarf or light sweater to cover your shoulders is handy. For evenings out, especially at local fado bars or restaurants, a dress or smart slacks and a nice top will help you blend in with Lisbon’s chic crowd. Comfortable yet stylish is the way to go!

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Spring
55 – 70°F
(13 – 21°C )

Summer
65 – 85°F
(18 – 29°C )

Fall
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C )

Winter
50 – 60°F
(10 – 16°C )

Spring: Mild & sunny, some rain

Summer: Warm and sunny with breezy evenings

Fall: Pleasant with warm days and cooler nights

Winter: Cool and rainy with mild temperatures

Spring
2.4 inches of rain

Summer
0.5 inches of rain

Fall
2.3 inches of rain

Winter
3.5 inches of rain

Tops & Layers

1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for Lisbon’s warm days and perfect for walking through Alfama.

2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Useful for cooler mornings and evenings, especially when visiting viewpoints like Miradouro de Santa Catarina.

3. Sweaters: Essential for layering, especially in the spring and fall—I loved how cozy my sweater was while exploring Lisbon’s hills!

4. Tank Tops: Great for summer days spent touring Lisbon’s historic districts.

5. Casual Jacket: Perfect for breezy evenings or touring Belém.

Bottoms & Dresses

1. Pants: Comfortable and practical for walking around Lisbon’s hills and cobblestones—I really liked these for long city tours!

2. Leggings: Great for layering or casual days spent sightseeing.

3. Shorts: Ideal for warm summer days while visiting Lisbon’s parks and gardens.

4. Dresses: Perfect for evenings out or visits to cultural sites like the Monastery of Jerónimos.

5. Skirt: A stylish option for both daytime exploring and evenings at Lisbon’s fado bars.

Shoes & Accessories

1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Lisbon’s steep streets—I really liked these for navigating the hilly terrain!

2. Sandals: Great for warm summer days spent along the riverfront or at Lisbon’s beaches.

3. Flats: A great option for evenings out, comfortable but stylish for Lisbon’s nightlife.

4. Sunglasses: Lisbon’s bright sun makes sunglasses a must when exploring outdoor areas.

5. Swimsuit: Perfect for beach days or a day trip to nearby Cascais.

6. Hat: Essential for sun protection while walking around Lisbon’s open-air attractions.

7. Pajamas: Comfortable for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing!

Luggage & Packs

1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend trip or keeping essentials close during your travels.

2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying water, snacks, and a camera while exploring Lisbon’s neighborhoods.

3. Purse: A stylish yet practical option for exploring Lisbon’s shops and cafes.

4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying any extra layers or for shopping in Lisbon’s local markets.

Travel Essentials

  1. Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
  2. Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
  3. Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
  4. Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
  5. Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
  6. White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
  7. Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
  8. Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
  9. Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
  10. Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
  11. Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
  12. Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
  1. Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
  2. Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
  3. E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
  4. Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
  5. Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
  6. Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
  7. GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
  8. Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
  9. Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
  10. Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
  11. Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
  12. Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
  13. Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
  1. Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
  2. Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
  3. Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
  4. Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
  5. Floss: Any floss will do.
  6. Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
  7. Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
  8. Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
  9. Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
  10. Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
  11. Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
  12. Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
  13. Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
  1. Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
  2. Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
  3. After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
  4. Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
  5. Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
  6. Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
  7. Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
  8. Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
  9. Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
  10. Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
  11. Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
  12. Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
  13. Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
  14. Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
  15. Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
  16. Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
  1. Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
  2. Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
  3. Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
  4. Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
  5. Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
  6. Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
  7. Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
  8. Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
  9. Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
  10. Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
  11. Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
  12. Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
  1. Passport
  2. Travel Visas (if needed)
  3. Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
  4. Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
  5. Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
  6. Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
  7. Credit / Debit Cards
  8. Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.

What to Know Before You Pack

  • Layers: Lisbon’s weather can shift throughout the day, so bring layers, especially in spring and fall.
  • Comfortable shoes: The city’s hills and cobblestone streets make walking a challenge, so pack sturdy, comfortable shoes.
  • Modest clothing: Many churches require modest dress, so a scarf or sweater will come in handy when visiting these sites.
  • Sunscreen: Lisbon gets a lot of sun, especially in summer, so don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat.
A classic yellow tram passing through Lisbon, Portugal, with colorful buildings and people walking near My Story Hotel Tejo.

Lisbon Travel FAQs

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LISBON?

May is the best month to visit Lisbon. May’s also great because the weather is warm but not too hot, perfect for walking tours and exploring Lisbon’s viewpoints. It’s less crowded than in the summer, so you can enjoy the city more peacefully.

WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN LISBON?

Lisbon Sardine Festival (June): A lively street festival celebrating the city’s love for grilled sardines, perfect for families and food lovers.

Lisbon Film Festival (November): A large tourist attraction for cinema enthusiasts, ideal for solo travelers and groups interested in arts and culture.

Christmas Markets (December): Held in various squares around the city, these markets are ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

WHERE SHOULD I GO IN LISBON?

Lisbon is a city full of history, culture, and stunning views. Start your visit in Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhood, known for its narrow streets and traditional Fado music. One of my favorite places is the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, which offers incredible views over the city. Don’t miss Belém, where you can visit the famous Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. For a day trip, head to Sintra, a fairy-tale town with colorful palaces and lush gardens just outside Lisbon.

HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT LISBON?

4-5 days is ideal to explore Lisbon’s neighborhoods, viewpoints, and nearby attractions like Sintra. A weekend can cover the highlights.

Suggested Itineraries:

2 Days: On day one, explore Alfama, visit São Jorge Castle, and enjoy sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Spend day two visiting Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and indulging in pastéis de nata at the famous Pastéis de Belém.

5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, take a day trip to Sintra to visit Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. Spend day four riding Tram 28 and exploring the Baixa district. On day five, visit the Lisbon Oceanarium and enjoy dinner in the Bairro Alto neighborhood.

1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six exploring the LX Factory for shopping and street art. On day seven, relax at Cascais Beach and take a scenic walk along the Estoril coastline.

10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the National Tile Museum and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Spend day nine visiting the Lisbon Botanical Gardens and enjoying a wine tasting. On day ten, take a trip to Setúbal for a dolphin-watching tour.

2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: Spend day eleven visiting the medieval town of Óbidos. On day twelve, explore the Alentejo region and its historic villages. For the final days, relax at Lisbon’s cafes and enjoy the city’s many viewpoints.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN LISBON?

2 Days

  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
  • 1 Dress
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Pairs of Socks
  • 2 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Daypack

5 Days

  • 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Dresses
  • 2 Pairs of Pants
  • 5 Pairs of Socks
  • 5 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Daypack

1 Week

  • 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Dresses
  • 2 Pairs of Pants
  • 6 Pairs of Socks
  • 6 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Daypack

10 Days

  • 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Dresses
  • 3 Pairs of Pants
  • 7 Pairs of Socks
  • 7 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Daypack

2 Weeks

  • 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 4 Dresses
  • 4 Pairs of Pants
  • 9 Pairs of Socks
  • 9 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Daypack

WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR LISBON?

High heels: Lisbon’s cobblestone streets are uneven and can make walking in heels uncomfortable.

Heavy winter coat: Even in winter, Lisbon’s weather is mild, so pack layers instead.

WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO LISBON ?

Airfare: $600-$1,200 depending on your starting location and season. Flights are more expensive in summer.

Accommodation: $80-$200 per night depending on location, with higher prices in central neighborhoods like Baixa.

Transportation: $20-$40 for public transport and taxis—Lisbon has an affordable tram, bus, and metro system.

Meals: $30-$70 per day depending on whether you eat at local tascas (small restaurants) or upscale places.

Activities: $20-$60 per day for entrance fees to museums and cultural sites, with many free viewpoints and parks to enjoy.

IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN LISBON? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?

Tipping is appreciated in Lisbon, but not mandatory. Locals typically round up the bill in restaurants and cafes, leaving around 5-10% for good service.

WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LISBON BEFORE I VISIT?

  • Bring comfortable shoes: Lisbon is hilly and cobbled streets are everywhere, so comfortable shoes are a must.
  • Use public transport: Lisbon’s trams and metro system are excellent for getting around the city.
  • Try local dishes: Don’t miss traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at local restaurants.
  • Visit early: Popular spots like Belém Tower and São Jorge Castle get crowded, so visit in the morning to beat the crowds.

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